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If you want the best hair removal results you need to understand the different methods.  Use the diagram below to determine which hair removal method will work best for you.

Instructions

1. Answer the question at the “START” of the hair removal diagram (circular blue shape).
2. Follow the lines to the next questions based on your answer (diamond grey shape).
3. Continue this process until you reach a hair removal method (square blue shape).
4. Visit the appropriate hair removal method webpage for more information.

Hair Removal Methods Diagram

Hair Removal Information

Visit the following articles for further information:

• Electrolysis Hair Removal
• Home Hair Removal Methods
• Laser Hair Removal
• Threading Hair Removal
• Waxing Hair Removal (sugaring)

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Anagen: The growing phase of hair, where hair follicles connect directly to the papilla and are nourished through the blood supply. Hairs must be in the anagen phase for electrolysis and laser hair removal to work.

Androgens: Male sex hormones found in both men and women (where it is produced in the ovaries). Androgenic hair appears on the arms, legs and pubic area for both men and women. For men, it also grows on the chest, face and back.

Examples of androgenic hair growth on men and women.

Axillary hair: Coarse hair found around the nipples and underarm area.

Catagen: The transition phase of hair growth, where follicles detach from the papilla (and blood supply) and shrink upward towards the sin’s surface.

Contact dermatitis: common skin irritation or inflammation due to contact with certain hair removal creams.

Corticosteriods: a treatment to reduce excessive hair growth (known as “hirsutism”) by preventing the adrenal gland from producing androgens.

CPE (Certified Professional Electrologist): A voluntary certification course offered by the American Electrologist Association. Electrologists must pass an exam and take continuing education courses to keep their status in good standing.

Cushing’s disease (also known as “Cushing’s syndrome” or “Cushingoid”): A disease where the pituitary glands produce excess adrenocorticotropic hormone; hirsutism is a common manifestation of Cushing’s disease.

Depilatories: Technical term for hair removal creams.

Dermis: The second layer of skin (just below the epidermis). The dermis is where shallow hair follicles and blood supply exist.

Diuretic: Drug that induces the need to urinate. Commonly used in treatments for hirsutism (e.g. spironolactone).

Electrologist: Certified professional who provides electrolysis.

Electrolysis: A method of hair removal where a small needle – sometimes called a “probe” – sends electrical current down the hair follicle and destroys its root. If done effectively, the blood supply dries up and prevents future hair regrowth. Electrolysis is the only form of permanent hair removal recognized by the Food and Drug Administration and American Medical Association.

Endocrinologist: A doctor specializing in hormonal disorders in the endocrine system. Endocrinologists often treat patients with hirsutism.

Epidermis: The outer layer of skin, which grows thickest in hairless regions like the hands, feet and lips.

Skin and Hair Terminology

Folliculitis: A condition where hair follicles become inflamed. A common side effect of shaving (also known as “razor burn”) and waxing.

Follicle: Gland which produces hair.

Galvanic electrolysis: The “true” method of electrolysis first discovered by Dr. Charles Michel in 1875. One of three methods of electrolysis (Thermolysis and Blend are the other two), galvanic electrolysis uses alternate current on hair follicles, which produces lye in the body. This newly produced lye destroys the hair follicle and dries up blood supply, preventing regrowth.

Hair root: Part of the hair located under the epidermis and inside the hair follicle (see above picture).

Hair shaft: Visible part of hair which emerges from the epidermis.

Hirsutism: Excess hair growth in women caused by increased production of androgens (a male hormone produced in the ovaries). See Figure 1 for examples of androgenic hair growth.

Hyperthyroidism (or “Hyperthyroid”): Condition where thyroid gland is over-productive. This can lead to excess androgens, which cause hirsutism.

Informed consent: A common legal form patients may sign before starting electrolysis or laser hair removal. Informed consent means the patient understands the process, the practitioner has disclosed all necessary information, and both parties agree to proceed.

Ingrown hair: A hair which has curled around and grown back into the skin. A common side effect of shaving, waxing and tweezing.

Keratin: Protein which holds the hair shaft together. Depilatories (hair removal creams) break down keratin so hair can be wiped away after just a few minutes. Keratin is found only above the skin; destroying keratin will not prevent regrowth.

Laser hair removal: Laser is an acronym for “Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation”. It is a common form of long-term hair reduction (3 – 6 months). Contrary to popular belief, laser hair removal is FDA approved as a form of hair reduction, not removal. Lasers emit radiation, which is absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft. As it absorbs the light, heat is created which destroys the hair follicle.

Melanin: A dark pigment found in the skin, hair and eyes (iris). Melanin absorbs lasers, which is why laser treatment should not be used on the face near the eyes without proper eye protection.

Mena: Small patch of dark hair found on the upper abdomen.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): A condition where cysts appear in the ovaries and interfere with proper hormone production. Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) is a common indication of PCOS.

Sebaceous glands: Glands which produce an oily, waxy material which lubricate and protect skin and hair (see Figure 2).

Subcutaneous tissue: Layer of skin below the dermis. Deep rooted hair follicles grow here.

Sugaring: A process of hair removal similar to waxing. Sugar paste is spread across the skin and removed in a single stroke. Certain sugaring pastes are 100% natural and do not require heat (like waxing).

Telogen: The third and final phase of hair growth. Telogen hair is considered “dead” as it no longer connects to the papilla and blood supply in the dermis. Telogen hair remains on the skin, until it is pushed out.

Terminal hair: Visible, dark hair which begins growth at birth. Examples are hair along the scalp and above the eyes.

Thermolysis: The second form of electrolysis. Thermolysis uses direct current to heat hair follicles. It is faster than galvanic electrolysis, though less effective.

Threading: Hair removal technique used for thousands of years, where a a thin thread is used to group unwanted hair together, then removed. Unlike tweezing – which pulls hair out one at a time – threading removes multiple hairs at once. (See Figure 3)

Threading

Topical anesthetic: Drug applied to prevent pain during hair removal. Electrolysis and laser treatment patients routinely use topical anesthetic prior to treatment.

Vellus hair: Body hair; usually finer and lighter than terminal hair.

Waxing: Method of hair removal where wax is applied to skin and quickly removed. There are two types of wax: “hard wax”; which is used for smaller areas (or areas where hair grows in multiple directions) and “strip wax” which is used on larger areas for efficiency. Strip wax can be more painful than hard wax.

Why Do Men Wax?

Below are several common reasons men wax for hair removal:

• Men wax their beard to maintain a clean-cut appearance for weeks and avoid razor burn, cuts and redness
• Men wax their legs and arms for athletic purposes, such as bodybuilding events, swimming and cycling
• Men wax their chest and back hair for a cleaner, smoother parents
• Men may wax their feet during the summer months (or whenever they were sandals)
• Men use waxing to remove a unibrow
• Removing pubic hair for a clean-cut appearance and/or to please their partner

Whatever the reason, the next step is to choose the correct type of wax for hair removal.

Types of Wax: Hard Wax Vs. Hot Wax (aka Strip Wax)

There two types of wax commonly used for hair removal: hard wax and strip wax (also called “strip wax”). Both have their benefits.

Hard wax has been around for hundreds of years, and was considered the de facto standard for hair removal in many cultures until the invention of strip wax.

Hard wax is applied upon the skin and then peeled off. While slower then strip wax, hard wax is ideal for sensitive areas such as the under arms, genitals, and face.

Strip wax is applied in long strips along the body and removed with a single stroke. The strip method works very well for large body parts especially the back and chest, and does not require the same level of skill is hard wax (which usually translates to lower costs).

Treatment Time

Treatment times vary based on the thickness of hair and size of the body part treated. The following are guidelines only:

• face: 15 – 30 minutes
• leg and pubic hair removal: 30 – 45 minutes
• chest and back: 45 – 60 minutes
• full body: 60 – 90 minutes

Waxing Results

For men, waxing results can be a welcome relief from shaving everyday. Here is completely removed for 2 to 3 weeks, with complete regrowth usually around six weeks.

Another benefit of waxing is that over time re growth is often finer and softer. This is a tremendous benefit for men looking for long-term hair reduction without paying for  electrolysis or laser hair removal.

Aftercare

Redness is a common side effect with waxing, though usually disappears within a few hours after treatment. Do not apply creams or lotions with alcohol in it immediately after waxing, as this will increase skin irritation.

Average Cost

The following is a list of average waxing prices for men in salons (note: these are estimates only):

• Underarm: $15 – 25
• Arm: $25 – $40
• Half leg: $35 – $40
• Full leg: $60 – $70
• Pubic area: $35 – $45
• Chest: $45 – $60
• Back: $45 – $60
• Brow: $10 – $20
• Chin: $10 – $15

Many salons offer discounts for package deals and/or referrals.

Advantages of Waxing for Men

• Fast method of hair removal
• Results last longer than shaving
• Less expensive than laser hair removal
• Possible long-term hair reduction
• Regrowth is often finer and softer

Disadvantages of Waxing for Men

• Possible discomfort
• People diabetes should avoid waxing for health reasons
• More expensive than shaving

Men’s Alternatives to Waxing

Hair removal creams: also known as depilatories, hair removal creams are a possible alternative to waxing for men. Simply apply the cream, wait three — six minutes then wiped the hair off with a cloth or in the shower. Depilatories attacked the proteins found in the hair shaft; as the hairs are broken down, they are easily wiped away.

Learn more about bikini waxing for men, yes men.

There are three types of bikini waxing available:

• American bikini wax: hair removed from just under the navel and above the thighs
• French bikini wax: hair removed from the anus and labia. Only a strip of hair is left on the front.
• Brazilian bikini wax: all hair removed from front and back. Also known as the “Hollywood bikini wax” or “full bikini wax”

The method for hair removal depends upon the desired bikini wax style.

American Bikini Wax

When doing an American style bikini wax, the hot strip method is ideal. Unlike French and Brazilian waxing, the American bikini wax does not remove hair from the labia, so the use of hot wax is completely safe. Hard wax can be used as well (though is not necessary).

The following is the standard procedure for an American bikini wax. Hair should be trimmed to 1/2 inch prior to waxing. While still wearing panties, create an even line on the sides of both thighs. Pull out any hairs that should be removed from under the panty line. Additional hairs can be trimmed with scissors or electric trimmer prior to waxing.

Next, apply an antiseptic to the area, pat it dry and apply powder. Then, use one hand to keep the skin taut and the other should apply wax with a spatula against the hair growth. For example, if the hair grows downward, apply the wax with an upward sweeping motion. Then apply another layer of wax in a downward motion (with the direction of hair growth). The hair left during an American bikini wax should be two inches wide and four to five inches long.

When removing the wax, always pull against the direction of hair growth in a single, sweeping motion. Be sure to follow through with motion to ensure all hairs are removed. It is not advisable to re-wax an area.

How long does an American bikini wax take?

An American bikini wax should take 20 – 30 minutes at a salon.

How long does an American bikini wax last?

First time waxers should return within two weeks for a follow up waxing. Generally 4 to 6 weeks between treatment. Hair re growth is usually finer and softer, with many reporting hair reduction after repeated treatments.

French Bikini Wax

OR…

A French bikini wax is the removal of all hair from the back, and leaving a small strip of hair on the pubis area (sometimes called a “racing stripe”).

The method for removal is similar to an American bikini wax. The strip method is used on the buttocks and frontal area but not along the labia (which requires depilatory hard wax).

Hard wax does not stick to skin like the strip method, so removing hair from the labia is not as uncomfortable as many believe. Hair along the labia grows inward, which makes pulling against the growth impossible (you’d hit the thighs). Therefore, once the hard wax is applied you can pull inward or upward, depending on which direction hair generally grows.

How long does a French bikini wax take?

A French bikini wax should take around 45 minutes.

How long does a French bikini wax last?

Generally, a French bikini wax lasts 4 – 6 weeks. First time waxers should return within two weeks for a follow up waxing.

What is a Brazilian Bikini Wax?

A Brazilian bikini wax – also known as a “Hollywood wax” or “full bikini wax” – follows the same method for a French bikini wax; the only difference is the removal of the strip of hair on the pubis region. A Brazilian bikini wax removes all hair from front to back.

Like the French bikini wax, strip wax can be used on all areas except for the labia region. Wax should be applied against the hair growth, then a second layer applied with the hair growth, then removed against hair growth. The only exception is along the labia, when the pull should be directly upward.

Once hair is removed, apply antiseptic lotion – such as salicylic acid – and pat dry.

How long does a Brazilian bikini wax take?

A Brazilian bikini wax should take 45 minutes in a salon.

How long does a Brazilian bikini wax last?

First time waxers should return after two weeks for a follow-up waxing. After that, Brazilian bikini waxes last for 4 – 6 weeks.

Brazilian Wax Aftercare

It is important to note that after a Brazilian bikini wax, blood spots may appear. This is a good thing. It’s a sign that the hair was removed at the root. Red spots will dissipate shortly as blood is reabsorbed into the skin.

Is A Male Bikini Wax Possible?

Yes. There is no real difference between female and male bikini waxes. Strip wax is used on the outer and rear areas, with hard wax generally used along the scrotum and base of the penis.

Male bikini waxing is growing in popularity, as it provides smoother skin for 4 – 6 weeks (as opposed to shaving, which only lasts a few days before stubble reappears).

Men interested in bikini waxes should speak with a professional before deciding on this method. Despite what many may believe, a male bikini wax is not any more uncomfortable than female bikini waxing. For more information, please visit our male pubic hair removal section.

Threading facial hair is a very common practice of hair removal in the Middle East and Asia. Originally practiced by the Egyptians thousands of years ago, threading is a natural, effective and inexpensive method for removing facial hair. While does work on other body parts, threading is primarily used for removing hair from the eyebrows and the upper lip. The following is a list of frequently asked questions about threading, and a step-by-step explanation of how to properly threaded facial hair.

What Is Threading?

Threading is a form of hair removal that uses a single strand of thread which is then wrapped around the hairs. Like tweezing, threading removes hair at the follicle level; unlike tweezing, threading can remove multiple hairs at once.

How Does Threading Remove Facial Hair?

A single strand of thread is tied together, which forms a loop. The loop is then wound approximately 10 times (called a “trap”), and moved quickly back and forth across the face. It is this back-and-forth motion that traps the hair, which is then plucked at the follicle level (similar to tweezing).

How Long Does Hair Removal Last With Threading?

Results last between two and four weeks. In comparison, results with other hair removal methods are as follows: shaving (1 – 2 days); tweezing (2 – 4 weeks); waxing (4 – 8 weeks). Electrolysis and laser hair removal require multiple treatments for results, and is therefore not a comparable method to threading.

Can I Thread My Own Facial Hair?

Yes, though it does take practice. Before attending the thread your own facial hair, it’s advisable to practice on your arm or leg. There are two reasons for this: first, it’s easier to see what you’re doing on your legs, and secondly, leg hair tends to be less sensitive than the eyebrows and upper lip.

Advantages of Threading Versus Waxing

Threading facial hair has several advantages over waxing. First, is generally less painful (though this is subjective and may depend upon the practitioner’s experience). There is also less skin area station, redness and swelling (a popular side effect of waxing).

The second advantage of threading is precision. Threading is perhaps the most efficient way for shaping eyebrows and creates smooth lines; it offers the same level of precision is tweezing, but the ability to remove multiple hairs simultaneously make it a much more effective method for facial hair removal.

Treatment time and costs are also lower with threading. The average cost for threading facial hair is between 10 — $2o and takes most skilled practitioners less than 20 minutes to do both eyebrows and the upper lip.

How to Thread Facial Hair: Step-By-Step

First, you’ll need about 2 feet of high-quality thread. This can be purchased in any local store; there is no specific type of thread necessary. All you’re looking for is thread does not snap or break easily.

Second, tie the ends of the thread together so that it forms a tightly knotted loop.

Third, place both hands inside the loop and with your left hand wind the string together ten times by creating a circular motion. This creates the trap, which catches hair and plucks them out.

Use one hand to guide the thread along your face, and the other hand to tighten the trap. Gently move the thread up and down your face (be sure to go slowly at first; going too fast may pull too many hairs simultaneously and cause discomfort).

Threading Facial Hair Video Tutorials

Video explaining threading technique:

Actual hair removal:

Threading is a very popular form of hair removal which dates back to the ancient Egyptians. It’s advantages include a fast treatment time (less than 15 minutes), low cost (under $12 in most salons) and 100% natural treatment.

While threading does work for all body parts, it’s most popular for removing stray facial hairs along the eyebrows and upper lip. The following article is for those interested in improving their threading technique to remove the eyebrow and upper lip hair.

Note: while threading is a common hair removal technique for eyebrows and upper lips, is advisable to practice on your leg. Not only is easier to see what you’re doing, it’s also less sensitive. Do not attempt to remove the eyebrow or upper lip hair until you feel comfortable with the threading process.

Step-by-Step Threading Technique:

Step #1: First, start with roughly 2 feet of high quality cotton thread. No special type of thread is required: you can purchase thread in any local supermarket (just make sure that it is strong and not likely to snap).

Step #2:Next and knots to both ends of the thread, thereby creating a loop. Then put both hands inside the loop and – one on either side – and your left hand in a circular motion 10 to 12 times. When you’re done, it should look like a bow-tie.

Step #3: With the left side of the “bow-tie” on the right side of your face, use your right hand to open up the side. Your left hand should guide the bow along your eyebrows or upper lip, while you’re right and adjusts to go along your face.

Step #4: Apply this motion across your face in a smooth, steady fashion. While it does take practice, threading your eyebrows at home can be an inexpensive, quick way to remove unwanted eyebrow and upper lip hair.

Threading

Eyebrow Threading Results

Results with rating should last between 2 to 4 weeks. Unlike waxing or shaving, threading removes hairs at the follicle level. While similar to tweezing, threading allows you to remove numerous hairs simultaneously, though this can result in serious discomfort if applied improperly.

Benefits of Threading

• Fast
• Inexpensive
• Completely natural
• Ideal for smaller areas such as the eyebrows and upper lip

Disadvantages of Threading Eyebrows

• Takes time to learn
• Can be painful if done incorrectly
• Difficult to find trained professionals outside of major cities

Eyebrow Threading Training Video

This video clearly explains how to thread your own eyebrows. Remember to practice on your leg before trying this at home!